Reserves In Stalemate

Vale`s second string continued their unbeaten start to the campaign with a scoreless draw at Barnsley. The game gave an opportunity to the likes of Doug Loft, returning after a spell out with a punctured lung suffered in the home game against Chesterfield, and Rob and Kris Taylor the chance to press their claims for a recall to the first team action ahead of this Saturday`s clash with Accrington Stanley.

The game, however, was too soon for a return for winger Lewis Haldane. The 25 year old resumed light training last week to continue his rehabilitation following serious illness after suffering an insect bite during pre season training in July.

Assistant boss Geoff Horsefield told The Sentinel that Haldane still had some way to go to recover from the illness, both physically and mentally. ‘Lewis has got to get past the injury on a mental level. He must get through that and keep getting himself fitter and stronger`. Vale are targeting the reserve team fixture against Sheffield United on 12 October for Haldane`s comeback. We wish Lewis well with his continued recovery.